Safety experts send key message around Cambridgeshire waterways
8 people drowned in Cambridgeshire's waterways between 2019 and 2022
Water safety experts are reminding those heading for a day out on Cambridgeshire's waterways to take all necessary safety precautions.
It comes as data from the National Water Safety Forum shows that 8 people died of drowning in the county between 2019 and 2022.
Liam Fayle-Parr is the RNLI's lead for water safety for the East, and believes all sorts of things can cause problems.
"We have a lot of issues with off-shore winds and inflatables and stand-up paddleboards," he said.
"Swimmers can get caught in lateral currents as well; whatever the activity, we just want people to stay safe."
"Get the call in to the emergency services as quickly as possible"
He said we all have a role to play if we see someone in trouble in the water.
"Make sure you keep an eye on the person in trouble and try and tell them to float on their back," he recommended.
"If there's something you could throw them that can help them float, that would be good too.
"Most importantly though, get the call in to the emergency services as quickly as possible."
Liam thinks it's important to recognise the RNLI's not trying to put people off of taking part in hobbies like swimming, sailing and paddle boarding.
"We recognise these activities, if done safely, are really good for people," he added.
"We just want people to enjoy them safely.
"We're not expecting something to go wrong every single time but making sure you have your life jacket on and your method of calling for help ready will be useful, because if something does go wrong and you're not ready for it, a bad situation can get a lot worse."
"Float to live"
If you do ever find yourself in trouble in the water, Liam said there are a number of key things you should do: "Remember to float to live.
"Lean back in the water so your ears are submerged, push your chest up and spread your arms and legs like a starfish.
"Then try and control your breathing and let the cold water shock pass whilst you work out your next move."